Ian Desmond resting with a sore hamstring

The Nationals are starting Danny Espinosa at shortstop today in order to rest red-hot Ian Desmond, who has been battling "a hamstring issue," Manager Jim Riggleman said. Riggleman pulled Desmond from Sunday's game after the Nationals opened up a large lead over the Pirates, Riggleman weary Desmond seriously aggravate what, for now, is a minor ailment.

"Ian goes so hard and runs so hard, I'm a little concerned about him pulling that thing," Riggleman said. "That becomes a three- or four-week injury, and then the season's over."

Ryan Zimmerman and Adam Dunn have also recently received a day off to rest small injuries. Desmond's rest comes while he's in the midst of his best streak as a rookie. Since July 27, at which Desmond's batting average hit a season-low .247, Desmond has hit .386/.410/.545.

Espinosa played shortstop his entire professional career until mid-August, when the Nationals started playing him every other game at second at Class AAA Syracuse. The Nationals believe he could play short - Riggleman called him, "one of the few guys in baseball, really, who can throw like Desmond" - but believe Desmond's range makes him their future shortstop. So, despite his start today at shortstop, Espinosa will not be evaluated as a shortstop, only a second baseman.

Riggleman added the Nationals will not call up any more players from the minors for September. "Everybody is here," he said.

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